In NFL draft, teams trade off picks" untested skills against rising salaries

By John Hockenberry, Adaora Udoji, Kerry Donahue

April 28, 2008, 06:59 AM

Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

First overall draft pick Jake Long with family and friends after being selected by the Miami Dolphins during the 2008 NFL Draft on April 26, 2008 at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

This weekend, 32 NFL teams shelled out millions for what they hope are the most talented college football players. For the draftniks, the drama is over and the newly jerseyed picks become fodder for armchair analyses and fantasy match-ups. For NFL executives, it was another year of paying too much for over-hyped long shots. Gary Belsky of ESPN Magazine recaps the draft.

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Takeaway facts:

2008 No. 1 pick: offensive tackle Jake Long, to the Miami Dolphins
The return on investment for top picks is now believed to be lower than later-round picks. An example: When quarterback Matt Ryan was taken before the Baltimore Ravens had their chance with their No. 8 pick, they traded down, taking Delaware QB Joe Flacco as a No. 18 pick. Last year's 8th pick signed for $31 million, while last year's 18th pick signed for $13 million. The Ravens may have saved $18 million.
The Miami Dolphins tried but failed to trade the No. 1 pick this year.
The NFL is the most profitable sport on the planet, according to Forbes.
$957 million: The average value of an NFL team.
$1.5 billion: Estimated value of the Dallas Cowboys, the most valuable NFL team (and the most valuable sports franchise in the world).
Nearly 3 out of 4 Americans watched an NFL game on television last season.

Guest: Gary Belsky, Editor-in-Chief, ESPN Magazine